CASIO SK-1 (1985)

A 32-key sampling keyboard with 8-bit PCM synthesis, released by Casio and sold as the Concertmate 500 through Radio Shack.

Overview

The CASIO SK-1 is a sampling keyboard made by Casio and released in 1985. It was also sold as the CONCERTMATE-500, catalog number 42-4004, custom-made for Radio Shack/Tandy Corporation. It was the first model in Casio's SK family of sampling keyboards, and it put digital sampling at a consumer-friendly price. It has a toy-like reputation. It also has a cult following, and professional musicians in electronic, rock, and experimental genres have used it.

Specifications

Number of Keys	32
Key Weight	Synth
Key Size	Mini
Touch Sensitive	no
Aftertouch	no
Number of Voices	8
Polyphony	4
Sound Generation	PCM
Piano Sounds	yes
Real World Sounds	yes
Sounds Editable	yes
Accompaniments	yes
Recorder/Sequencer	yes
Tutorials	no
MIDI	no
USB	no
Tablet Connectivity	no
AC Power	yes
Batteries	yes
Speakers	yes
Audio Out	yes
Audio In	yes
Sustain Pedal	no
Soft Pedal	no
Expression Pedal	no
Sampling	8-bit PCM sampling of up to 1.4 seconds
Inputs	built in microphone and line level/mic inputs
Output	line out

Design

The SK-1 uses Casio's PCM wave-based synthesis to play back basic sampled sounds. It samples at 8 bits for up to 1.4 seconds. All voices can be shaped with 13 preset envelopes, portamento, and vibrato. Technical documentation indicates the pitch signal from the CPU is amplified by differential amplifiers (transistors T15 and T16). The envelope signal is a stepped waveform generated by the CPU.

Context

The SK-1 launched in 1985 as the first of Casio's SK family of sampling keyboards. It was sold as an affordable electronic instrument and retailed for under $100. Some people saw it as a novelty. Its sound and its circuit-bending potential have kept it in demand.

Market

Because of that cult status, working CASIO SK-1 units now often sell for significantly more than their original price. Fatboy Slim, Beck, Autechre, Portishead, Nine Inch Nails, and Blur have all used the SK-1 in recordings.

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